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Spike Lee Explains Why He Supported Alcaraz Over Sinner at French Open

Spike Lee addressed his perceived slight towards Jannik Sinner at the Torino Film Festival.
Pat Benson|
Spike Lee was asked about his support of Carlos Alcaraz at the 2025 French Open final.
Spike Lee was asked about his support of Carlos Alcaraz at the 2025 French Open final. | IMAGO / PsnewZ

In addition to being one of the greatest American filmmakers of all time and a pop culture icon, Spike Lee is also a massive sports fan. It is never surprising to see the 68-year-old sitting in the best seats at major sporting events.

That was the case for this year's epic French Open final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Like every tennis fan, Lee could barely contain his excitement while watching the 5.5-hour battle.

However, Lee received backlash on social media from disgruntled fans who did not appreciate him cheering on Alcaraz during the comeback victory. Lee addressed the criticism while speaking on a panel at the 2025 Torino Film Festival this weekend.

"I just want to clear up something. I have nothing against Sinner," said Lee with a laugh. "He is a great, great, great tennis player. And... because some people have saw my enthusiasm for Carlos, they felt that I was being disrespectful. So, no, that is not the case at all."

"I love sports. Especially basketball - the New York Knicks. So when I knew I was coming here... because I was getting text messages, all type of stuff in Italy. Like I was... I'm not going to use the word. But that's not true at all. And I hope to meet Sinner one day in person, shake his hand, and let him know I have nothing but love for him. You know?"

"They're the two best male tennis players in the world. So, it's all love. I have nothing against him. So, write that down!" said Lee with a smile.

"And then if I see him at Wimbledon, the French Open, or the US Open, I'm a big collector. So, I'd love for him to sign me a match-worn tennis racket. I have a match-played racket from Arthur Ashe, from Serena (Williams), from Coco (Gauff). So, I'd like to add Sinner to my collection. Now, we can talk about the movie."

There is no bad blood between Sinner and Alcaraz, with most of the tennis world being the same way. However, some supporters take the rivalry too far when they begin lashing out at other fans. Especially those who have championed the sport for decades, like Lee.

Luckily, there are no hard feelings from Lee, and fans can expect to see at more Grand Slams in the future.

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Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers professional tennis for Serve on Sports Illustrated, reporting on ATP and WTA events worldwide. From Challenger tournaments to Grand Slams, he brings readers in-depth coverage, daily recaps, and exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in the sport. With a decade of experience in sports journalism, Pat is recognized as a trusted voice in tennis media. You can contact him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.

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